In the vibrant world of fashion and entrepreneurship, being recognised as a finalist at the GBEA Awards was a tremendous honour. Having previously earned finalist accolades in 2020 and 2021 for Fashion & Beauty Entrepreneur of the Year, the anticipation for the 2023 Creative Entrepreneur of the Year nomination was met with great excitement.
Early in 2023, during a visionary session with business coach Lindsey Newman of Passion Marketing, the goal was set to clinch the GBEA award. Miraculously, just a week later, the thrilling news arrived – I was once again a finalist!
My Journey to the GBEA Awards 2023: Bespoke Dress Design and Glamour Unveiled.
With the grand event on the horizon, the quest for the perfect dress began. Myself and our in-house design team crafted several options, each with the intention of making a statement. To bring these bespoke designs to life, we turned to the renowned Alexey Morozov Atelier. Known for unparalleled attention to detail and expertise in occasion wear, Alexey Morozov was the natural choice for creating a dramatic and unique ensemble that would make a lasting impression.
Not only did I want to shine at the awards, but I also wanted my Business Advisor, Paul, to make a statement of his own. We collaborated on a matching waistcoat for him to wear under his tuxedo, ensuring a coordinated and stylish look.
The journey towards the perfect outfit included meticulous choices in designs, fabrics, and trims. Three fittings with Alexey Morozov later, and both Paul and I were awards-ready, confidently awaiting the grand evening.
The Awards
On the 20th of November 2023, we descended upon London for the GBEA Awards at the Grosvenor Hotel. Amidst the excitement, a slight detour to the Dorchester added an unexpected twist to our adventure – a story for another day!
The day unfolded with a delightful lunch at the Home Grown Private Members Club, where I proudly collected my Finalist Certificate, then off we went to get our glam on!
The Grosvenor Hotel venue exuded grandeur, and the camaraderie among fellow entrepreneurs was awe-inspiring. Seated at a table with like-minded individuals from ThinkEngine, Wharf Street Studios, and our table sponsor JCDecaux, the anticipation for the awards ceremony reached its peak.
My fellow finalists in the Midlands were Chris from The DM Lab, Claire Donegan BEM from Claire Donegan Military Art, Jojo Smith from Creativsas, Lucy Nicholls from The PS Events Group and Ross Testa from 3 Heads Agency who went on to win our category….and well deserved!
While the honour of winning eluded me this time, being a finalist was an incredible achievement, especially considering the challenges faced in 2022, as detailed in my Journal about our rebrand (link to rebrand blog post here) The pride of being a finalist, alongside Paul, resonates deeply. As I reflect on this experience, here's to what 2024 may hold – perhaps a WINNER's journey awaits?
As we look forward, let's celebrate the blend of entrepreneurship, bespoke dress design, and the spirit of innovation that defines my journey.
Shelley / Childrenswear Brand
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